Michel Platini 'to enter FIFA presidency race'

UEFA boss Michel Platini will reportedly announce his intention later this week to replace Sepp Blatter as FIFA president.

Blatter has been in charge of football's world governing body since 1998, but he will step down from his position next year due to an ongoing corruption crisis.

It has been claimed by BBC Sport that Platini will be a leading candidate to take over from the Swiss, having received the backing of four continental confederations.

The former France midfielder could declare as early as Wednesday, the report suggests, with candidates being given until October 26 to be nominated.

An emergency election will be held in Zurich next February, when a replacement for outgoing Blatter will be named.